Train to be the BEST

Published: 28 May, 2012

Building Engineering Services Training (BEST), a UK training provider for the building engineering services sector and member of Building & Engineering Services Association, has introduced a new apprenticeship scheme created to provide employers with future managers and senior managers.

Best’s ‘Professional Apprenticeship Scheme’ is designed to enable ambitious youngsters to progress from craft level to chartered-engineer status. While it provides an appealing alternative to the higher education path, BEST claims the teaching programme will also connect employers with talented and ambitious individuals looking to join the industry. The scheme is designed to create skilled, well-educated and work-experienced employees, at senior-management level, keen to invest in their company.

Endorsed and supported by several industry bodies – including the Institute of Engineering & Technology, and the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineering – the scheme will also benefit from government incentives. Up to £1,500 is available, per apprentice, for employers new to apprenticeship schemes. This is in addition to training costs, which are fully funded for 16- to 18-year-olds.

John Hayes, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills & Lifelong Learning, commented that BEST’s scheme was exactly the type of professional apprenticeship route the government would like to see more of. “Skills are economically vital. Employers can’t stay in business without people with the right skills for the job. Apprentices should have something to aspire to and be awarded recognition for their work, just as graduates are,” he said.

Dr Mark Brenner, BEST’s chief executive, said: “It is important for businesses and the industry as a whole to invest in our employees, because these individuals will become the managers of the future, driving our businesses and the industry forward. BEST selects the most suitable candidate for your business needs, providing state-of-the-art training, mentoring and technology support throughout the apprenticeship programme.”